Entertainment

‘Lean on Me’ to Become Drama Series with Female-Led Cast, Produced By John Legend and LeBron James

The inspiring 1989 film “Lean on Me,” is being turned into television series for the CW.

The film, which starred Morgan Freeman, was based on the true story of Joe Louis Clark – a principle of an inner city high school in Paterson, New Jersey. Clark was at risk of being taken over by the New Jersey government unless his students improve their test scores on the New Jersey Minimum Basic Skills Test. The principle soon became known for imposing radical changes and unconventional disciplinary methods with his students.

Now, it has been announced that the CW will be transforming the hit film into a drama series, with a female-led cast! According to Deadline, the series will tell the story of Amarie Baldwin – a young black teacher who earns a job as a principle of a public high school in Akron, Ohio. Baldwin must dig deep to transform the failing institution into an urban oasis against a broken system. Her mission to make the school system will put her mettle, family and love life to the test.

The hour-long series hails from ABC’s “Station 19” producer Wendy Calhoun, who will serve as writer and executive producer on the project. Her past credits also include “Revenge,” “Empire,” “Nashville,” and “Justified.” Along with Calhoun, NBA star LeBron James and award-winning singer John Legend will also join as executive producers. James, an Akron native, will produce alongside Maverick Carter through their production company, Springhill Entertainment – while Legend will produce via his Get Lifted Film Company.

For now, there are no details about when we can expect to see this female-led remix to the classic film.